Pros & cons
PROS
- Largest public marina in Miami with ramps, slips, and fuel dock
- Jetty nature trail with big Biscayne Bay views and wildlife
- On-site restaurant and picnic pavilions
CONS
- Very busy on weekends and holidays
- No swimming due to crocodiles and boat traffic
Overview
Black Point Park & Marina sits on the mangrove-lined edge of Biscayne Bay, immediately adjacent to the park’s western boundary. It’s the go-to gateway for getting onto the bay—think boat ramps, wet slips, and a fuel dock—plus easy on‑shore time via a bayside trail and jetty. If you’re planning to explore the water side of the park, this is the most convenient launch point.
What You'll See
A paved nature trail weaves through mangroves and transitions onto a long jetty—about 1.5 miles—jutting into the bay. It’s a relaxed walk with wide-water views toward Sands Key and Elliott Key across the way. Expect classic Biscayne scenes: glassy shallows, seagrass flats, and mangrove edges.
On the Water vs. On Shore
On-water, this is launch central: multiple ramps, abundant slips, and marine fuel make it popular for fishing, diving, paddling, and sandbar runs. Shore-side, it’s surprisingly pleasant for non‑boaters—walk or bike the paths, fish from the jetty, or settle into a picnic pavilion and watch the boating bustle.
Wildlife
Manatees are frequent around the marina basin, and you may spot American crocodiles in the channels. Wading birds work the mangrove edges. Keep your distance and enjoy the show—this is very much their home, and rules against disturbing wildlife are strict. Swimming is off the table here, both for safety and due to boat traffic.
Practicalities
Facilities are robust for a county marina: multiple boat ramps, wet slips, picnic pavilions with grills, a dockside restaurant/bar, and a fuel dock. It’s open year‑round; expect an active, working‑marina vibe rather than a secluded shoreline feel.
Best Time to Visit
Weekdays or early mornings are your friend—ramps and parking fill fast on weekends and holidays. For photography and mellow temps, hit the jetty at sunrise when light is soft and winds are typically calmer. Afternoons see heavier boat traffic and harsher light.
Bottom Line
If your Biscayne plans involve a boat or a paddle, start here. Even without a vessel, the jetty walk, wildlife sightings, and easy amenities make this a solid, low‑effort stop that pairs well with a meal by the water.
Where it is
25.5381, -80.3297Tips for Black Point Marina
- 01Arrive early on weekends and holidays—ramps and parking fill quickly.
- 02Walk the jetty at sunrise for calm winds, soft light, and wildlife.
- 03Do not swim; give manatees and crocodiles plenty of space.
- 04Bring sun protection—the trail and jetty are exposed.
- 05No boat? You can still enjoy the trail, jetty fishing, and a waterside meal.
Amenities
Near Black Point Marina
All places →All trails →
5.1 mi awayConvoy Point JettyShort jetty stroll with bay views and easy wildlife watchingTrailhead · Scenic Viewpoint
5.1 mi awayBiscayne National Park Entrance SignQuick, photogenic welcome sign beside the visitor center and bayPullout · Parking
5.1 mi awayJetty TrailEasy shoreline stroll from the visitor center with wildlife and viewsEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
5.1 mi awayBiscayne National Park - Dante Fascell Vistor CenterWaterfront hub for exhibits, Jetty Trail, and launching on-water adventuresTrailhead · Restroom
5.1 mi awayBiscayne National Park Institute StoreHandy bayfront shop for gifts, guides, and last‑minute essentialsStore · Restroom
9.6 mi awayBoca Chita Key TrailShort island loop with a photogenic 1930s coral-rock lighthouseEasy · 0.5 mi · 24 min
10.1 mi awaySpite HighwayStraight, flat island traverse with history—and relentless mosquitoes.Easy · 7 mi · 4.5 hr
10.2 mi awayElliott Key Nature TrailShort, shady loop with interpretive signs—worth it if you’re on ElliottEasy · 1.1 mi · 18 min
